Kevin McHale has offered fans a glimpse of his lasting connection with the family of his late Glee co-star Naya Rivera. In a recent Instagram photo collection, the actor included a cheerful picture with Rivera’s son, Josey Dorsey, and the boy’s father, actor Ryan Dorsey.
The photo appeared in McHale’s October 9, 2026, post reflecting on his first year living in New York City. While the actor celebrated new experiences and friendships, the family snapshot stood out as a reminder of the bonds he has maintained over the years.
Rivera died in July 2020. Since then, her family, friends, and former colleagues have continued to remember her, while her son has begun taking steps toward a career in entertainment.
Kevin McHale Includes Josey Dorsey in New York Photo Update
McHale’s Instagram carousel featured moments from his life during his first year in New York. In the caption, he expressed gratitude for reconnecting with longtime friends, meeting new people, and working with talented colleagues.
Among the images was a photo of McHale smiling alongside Josey and Ryan Dorsey. The relaxed snapshot offered a personal look at the connection between the Glee actor and Rivera’s family.
McHale did not make the photo the main focus of his post. Instead, it appeared among a wider collection of memories from the year, making it a warm and understated moment for fans who remember his friendship with Rivera.
The image also comes during a busy period for McHale, who joined the Broadway revival of The Rocky Horror Show as Brad Majors. The production is playing at Studio 54 in New York.
Kevin McHale and Naya Rivera Shared a Bond Through Glee
McHale and Rivera worked together on the musical comedy series Glee, which became a major part of both actors’ careers. McHale played Artie Abrams, while Rivera became widely known for portraying Santana Lopez.
The show developed a devoted audience through its music, characters, and stories about friendship and identity. Its cast members also became familiar faces to viewers who followed the series over several seasons.
Rivera died at age 33 in July 2020 after an accidental drowning at Lake Piru in California. Her young son, Josey, had been with her during the boating outing and was found safe on the boat. The tragedy deeply affected fans and people who had worked with the actress.
McHale’s recent photo does not provide new details about his relationship with Josey. However, it offers a glimpse of a personal connection that has continued beyond their shared time on Glee.
Josey Dorsey Is Preparing for His First Film Role
Josey is also beginning a new chapter of his own. In August 2026, reports confirmed that he had secured a role in The Burning Valley, a feature film written and directed by Evan Coury.
The project will feature Josey alongside his father, Ryan Dorsey. According to People and the Los Angeles Times, the father and son will play characters connected as a family in the film.
The drama centers on a steelworker facing the loss of his job after a mill announces its closure. The story explores the personal consequences of economic change in a Rust Belt community.
Ryan has expressed pride in his son’s new opportunity, according to reports about the casting. The role marks an important step for Josey as he begins exploring acting, a profession shared by both of his parents.
Although his screen career is only beginning, the project has already drawn public interest because of his family background and his mother’s lasting place in television history.
Ryan Dorsey Continues Raising Josey While Honoring Naya Rivera
Since Rivera’s death, Ryan Dorsey has raised their son while continuing his own acting career. The family has largely kept its private life away from the spotlight, although Ryan has occasionally shared updates about Josey and his development.
Josey’s new film role brings another milestone for the family. Working alongside his father also gives him an opportunity to gain experience on a professional film set with someone he knows and trusts.
Rivera was best known to many viewers for her role as Santana Lopez on Glee. Her performances and music helped make the character one of the series’ most memorable figures.
While Josey is building his own path, his family history remains part of the public interest surrounding him. His acting debut may also prompt fans to remember Rivera’s work and the impact she had on audiences.
Kevin McHale’s Post Offers a Glimpse of a Lasting Friendship
McHale’s New York update was primarily a celebration of his life and work over the past year. Still, the photograph with Josey and Ryan added a meaningful personal moment to the collection.
For viewers who followed Glee, the image connects the show’s legacy with the lives of its cast members beyond the screen. It also comes as Josey reaches a new stage in his life and prepares to appear in his first feature film.
McHale has not publicly shared extensive details about the photo or the visit. The image itself, however, captures a cheerful moment between the actor and Rivera’s family.
As Josey explores acting and Ryan continues to support him, Rivera’s memory remains an important part of their story.